We enjoy crabs and beer at this waterfront crab house.

Get Baltimore Daily.

I think it's always important, no matter how well you think you know a city, to revisit some of its long-standing gems. Some co-workers and I did just that yesterday when we headed over to Captain James Crabhouse, across the street from the ship-shaped Captain James Landing.

The crabhouse has long been a staple for tourists and locals alike to sample some hardshells aside a great water view. And, over this past winter, Captain James overwent some sleek renovations. The indoor crabhouse now has a new bar (with HD flat screens), refurbished heat and air-conditioning, and new bathrooms. Outside, there is a newly built deck and roof over the brown-papered picnic tables. Though it's been creeping into the high-90s this week, the deck felt great as the ceiling fans and water breeze kept us cool.

We ordered a dozen extra larges—currently $69—which were heavy and smothered in Old Bay seasoning. We also got a couple buckets of beer, which are usually around $20 for six brews. (Please note: prices flucuate due to market). Island music played over the speakers as we picked away at our hardshells. To top it off, Captain James serves authentic Boardwalk Fries to complete the beach-like experience. The crabhouse's weekly specials include $2 off beer buckets on Tuesdays and $10 off a dozen on Wednesdays.

So, next time you want to relax after a hard day or take some out-of-towners to dinner, don't forget about old stand-bys like Captain James.